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Post mortem evaluation of brain edema using quantitative MRI
Melanie Bauer1, Celine Berger1, Kathrin Gerlach1
1Institute of Forensic Medicine, Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland; Institute of Forensic Medicine, Health Department Basel-Stadt, Basel, Switzerland.
Post mortem MRI offers an objective method to detect brain edema. Quantitative MRI parameters T2 and fractional anisotropy (FA) in the cortex accurately differentiate between edematous and non-edematous brains.
Area of Science:
- Forensic pathology
- Neuroimaging
- Medical diagnostics
Background:
- Autopsy relies on macroscopic signs for brain edema assessment.
- Objective, noninvasive, and quantitative methods are needed for post mortem brain edema evaluation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the suitability of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for differentiating edematous from nonedematous brains post mortem.
- To explore quantitative MRI parameters as objective indicators of brain edema.
Main Methods:
- Post mortem in situ MRI was performed on 22 deceased individuals prior to autopsy.
- Quantitative MRI parameters (T1, T2, T2*, FA, mean diffusivity) were computed for different brain regions.
- Normalized cerebral weight (NCW) was calculated and correlated with MRI parameters using linear regression.
Main Results:
- Significant correlations were found between T2 and fractional anisotropy (FA) with NCW in the cortex.
- These MRI parameters demonstrated the best fit in linear regression models for edema assessment.
- Quantitative MRI provides objective data on brain edema status.
Conclusions:
- Quantitative MRI, specifically T2 and FA in the cortex, is effective in differentiating edematous from nonedematous brains.
- Post mortem in situ MRI can provide valuable, objective information on brain edema before or in lieu of autopsy.
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